Tuesday, January 12; 12 p.m. — The Hull-House Kitchen Hosts re-Thinking Soup

I have heard so many great things about this series, but unfortunately have not been able to attend a Tuesday yet. “Every Tuesday from 12:00-1:00pm, the Hull-House Museum hosts a modern day soup kitchen that is a public and communal event where we gather together and eat delicious, healthy, soup and have fresh, organic conversation about many of the urgent social, cultural, economic and environmental food issues that we should be addressing.”

I don’t see January 12th’s topic or speaker posted yet, but I’m sure it will be an informative and engaging way to spend a lunch hour.

Wednesday, January 13th; 5:45 – 8:30 p.m. – Chicago Green Drinks: Annual State of Sustainable Chicago

If you haven’t been to a Chicago Green Drinks before, this would be a good one to start with. Note: pre-registration is required for this event, so act quickly if you’re interested. (Normally you can just show up to Green Drinks, but this is a particularly popular night.) “How will the events of 2009 impact us in 2010? Come gain a broad perspective from local leaders on topics ranging from green restaurants to environmental policy. Leave inspired with ideas about how you can get involved in issues that will influence Chicago in the coming year.”

Foresight Design’s Chicago Green Drinks has been around for quite a while now and it attracts a loyal, business and networking-minded crowd. It’s a great opportunity to hear some of the city’s top leaders in sustainability and interesting thinkers. You can go with the mindset of meeting new people and networking, or you can make your night more laid back if you prefer and just take in the panel discussion. I’ve got my ticket, so I’ll see you there.

Eco Scenes category: These entries share upcoming events with a focus on learning about creating more sustainable communities and lifestyles. The point is to do more than “be seen on the scene.” Engage with others, take valuable information away, and use it to make positive changes in your life and others.

(Image via Medill Reports)

If you’re not finished with holiday shopping yet, there’s a great event in Chicago this Thursday featuring eco-fashion brands Frei Designs, Mohop and Mountains of the Moon. And if dresses, jackets, jewelry or shoes aren’t on your shopping list, maybe you’ll be interested in checking out eco-friendly paint or consulting services from Colori–where the event will be held. I’ll definitely be stopping in! Details are in the flyer above, or click here for more information.

A few other Chicago independent retailers I like for gifts:

Post 27, 1819 West Grand Avenue: Mid century modern furniture and home goods with a mix of new eco items and locally made artists works. I can spend hours in here, but it won’t take you long to see there are a ton of great gift options.

Green Grocer, 1402 West Grand Avenue: Buying foodstuffs or a nice bottle of wine is a great gift option when the person is hard to buy for, you’re looking for lower price points or maybe you just want something fun to add to a larger gift. Stop at Green Grocer for organic and local treats that anyone will appreciate.

Permanent Records, 1914 West Chicago Avenue: I really like the idea of supporting local music shops and Permanent is a great one. Sure, iTunes gift cards might be nice and easy and used by everyone. But there’s something great about going to a shop and listening to music, seeing the staff picks, petting the cute cat and then buying a physical cd.

Eco Scenes category: These entries share upcoming events with a focus on learning about creating more sustainable communities and lifestyles. The point is to do more than “be seen on the scene.” Engage with others, take valuable information away, and use it to make positive changes in your life and others.